Laphroaig Cairdeas 2024 Cask Favourites 10 Years
Laphroaig is arguably one of the most well-known Islay single malts. From supermarket shelves to independent single cask bottlings, Laphroaig whiskies are recognized and beloved across all market segments. Although we've enjoyed several of their malts in the past, they have been unusually absent from our reviews. Following the trend of limited editions, the distillery offers special "collector's editions" under the Cairdeas label in limited quantities. Today, we're trying the 2024 "Cask Favourites" – a 10-years combination of Triple Wood and PX Sherry casks. We're eager to see if the quality matches the hype.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The opening is unmistakable: the iodine-rich, medicinal Laphroaig smoke, accompanied by a hint of tobacco. Milder aromas of charred grill grate join in. Behind the peat, we find the sherry casks: plums wrapped in bacon, old leather, orange peel, and the scents of fermented grapes. In the top notes, we detect orange peel and a touch of forest honey.
Palate
On the palate, pure maritime aromas unfold immediately. We think of seaweed and seawater. The malt is creamy and effervescent with hints of chili and ginger. On the palate, it is herbaceous and dry with hints of burnt sage. In the background, light notes of orange peel, licorice, and coffee grounds emerge.
Finish
The finish is medium-long and comes with a good dose of slightly bitter oak. A light pepper kick with voluminous smoke is accompanied by a smoldering leaf fire. The dram is rounded off by hints of burnt caramel.
Thoughts
Marcel 80/100
The Cairdeas 2024 brings together the classic Laphroaig smoke with a pleasant, spicy warmth – a genuine treat for fans of this style, though it lacks a big wow factor. For the price, I would have hoped for a bit more uniqueness; nonetheless, it’s a solid Islay representative that leaves you wanting more.
Sascha 83/100
Technically, the Cairdeas 2024 is well-structured and showcases a successful balance between maritime notes and sherry influences, with the finish scoring points for bitter oak and spicy smoke. Despite the clean composition, the value for money falls short compared to the 10CS, making it more of an interesting collector’s bottling.
Value for Money: Fair
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84/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does the combination of Triple Wood and PX Sherry casks influence the flavor of the Laphroaig Cairdeas 2024?
Maturation in Triple Wood and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks imparts a complex aromatic profile, where Laphroaig’s typical peaty-smoky character is complemented by sweet and fruity notes such as plums, orange peel, and forest honey.
What role does the maritime influence play in this Islay single malt?
The maritime character is evident through aromas of seaweed and seawater, which shape the flavor and make the whisky distinctly representative of the Islay region. These salty and spicy notes enhance the connection to the distillery’s coastal location.
How does the 52.4% alcohol content affect the drinking experience?
At 52.4% ABV, the Laphroaig Cairdeas 2024 offers an intense range of aromas and a robust body. The higher alcohol content provides a tingling mouthfeel and amplifies the complex flavor notes without coming across as harsh.